Page 34 - MWC 02-04-2021s

The Midwest Cattleman · February 4, 2021 · P34
LICE INFESTING CATTLE HERDS

In the midst of one of the mild- tain regions of the country see- Lice essentially spend their flies or houseflies and take a trip
est winters ever, many ranchers ing variation in the species pres- entire life on the animal and to another animal.
are faced with lice infestations ent. The common species are cannot survive off the host for Diagnosing a Lice Infestation
in herds even though they have categorized as sucking (pierce more than a few days, according Determining a lice infestation
treated their cattle. skin and suck blood) or biting to Stokka. The life cycle of lice in cattle is generally an easy di-
Some even have treated more (feed on skin debris). on cattle varies from three to six agnosis for veterinarians and
than once and still Sucking lice in- weeks. many producers. One indication
are seeing the effects clude the short-nosed Transmission generally re- of a lice problem is cattle that
of lice in their live- cattle louse, long- quires animal-to-animal con- appear to have itchy skin.
stock. nosed cattle louse tact. However, lice have been Another sign is characteristic
“We are experienc- and little blue louse. shown to grasp the legs of horn hair loss patterns in the neck,
ing lice populations The most common
that are apparently biting louse is the red
much more difficult louse, also known as "Excellent course and
to control than pre- the cattle-chewing instructor. Checked four of
viously,” says Gerald louse. mine today. I now know my
Stokka, North Dako- Lice infestations bulls are doing their job."
ta State University increase during cold Dewayne Barton
Extension veterinar- weather and subside Willow Springs, MO
ian. “We cannot be during warm weath-
sure as to the reason er in response to the
for reduced lice con- increased surface
trol, but the possibil- temperature of their
ity of resistance to host. Although most
our control products is certainly cattle become louse free in the
on the minds of our veterinary summer months, carrier ani- Learn to pregnancy check your own cows. Complete hands on
practitioners.” mals (about 1% to 2%) remain course designed to teach you the fundamentals of preg checking.
Lice Species Common in U.S. infected and serve as a source Call us today or visit our website for complete details.
Five species of lice commonly of reinfestation during fall and (573) 208-8125 • www.circle5cowschool.com
are found in the U.S., with cer- winter months.

Located 45 mi. SE of Kansas City, Mo on 58 Hwy. east at
Modern Kingsville Livestock Auction Center at Kingsville, MO

Make Plans To Attend Our Next
Special Cow Sale

Saturday - Feb. 20th - 11 am

Seedstock Plus

North Missouri Bull Sale

Saturday - Feb. 27nd

150 ALL Black Gelbvieh-Balancer Bulls

This Is a Closed Non-Consignment Sale.
(See ad page 2 of this issue)

All Consigners & Buyers Welcome
Call 816-597-3331 Office

Rick, Jeremy or Jared Anstine
816-258-3421 • 816-716-9288 • 816-878-5229

Website: www.kingsvillelivestock.com • email: kingsville@earthlink.net